China and the EU: Economy Prevails

Christopher O´ Hara

Issue & Policy Briefs October 1, 2010, No. 37

In recent years Sino-EU interaction has increased and will continue to do so. This will also increase strife in Sino-EU relations. There are concerns that clashes could occur over sensitive issues like human rights and Chinese border intrusion into surrounding countries. Concerns are also being aired, however, that China and the EU are becoming too friendly, mainly with regards to the lifting of the arms embargo. This may change power structures and priorities in the region. The author notes that the more sober view of Sino-EU relations should be focused on, were relations will remain stable, notbecause China and the EU necessarily want it, but because it is advantageous to both. The mutual
benefits of cooperative trade far outweigh any foreseeable difficulties.

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